Jessica Davis (@atelier_davis) has proven prolific in the design world, and we got to pick her brain to find out what inspires her oeuvre.
Buckhead dining room featuring custom furniture and eclectic art collection styled and designed by Jessica Davis PHOTO BY HEIDI HARRIS
PHOTO BY AARON GRANT
How did you discover your love for interior design? As a tween, I would babysit my next-door neighbor’s kids. They had a subscription to Arch Digest, and I would spend a ton of time (while the kids were asleep, of course) pouring over the issues.
Does your heritage influence the work you do? I’m half Chinese, and my parents collect Chinese Antiques. I have pieces passed down from them, and I grew up in a home that was a fun mix of oriental rugs, mid-century modern furniture, Asian antiques and modern art. My own home and style are a reflection of that.
Does your academic background assist you in your work? I have a degree in Art History from Princeton, but my studies focused on modern domestic architecture and urban planning. My passion for architecture plays into my hardware design and how I approach my interiors.
What are the mistakes people often make when decorating their home or space? I often see art that is hung too high and rugs that need to be bigger—or latching onto a trend without much thought (shiplap anyone?).
Where do you find the inspiration for your work? I am inspired by so many things - jewelry, fashion, landscape, and even the insides of cars or airplanes. I might be inspired to select or design a custom textile based on something in nature. Or to go for a color scheme based on something I’ve seen in fashion. Looking at magazines and at other designers’ work is also super inspiring. There are so many people doing extraordinary things out there.
What do you hope your designs will achieve? I always want a space to feel welcoming and comfortable but with a touch of quirkiness to showcase the inhabitants’ or owners’ personalities. If it feels formulaic or “pinteresty” then it’s not me.
How has your career changed since becoming the head of your studio? It’s been great having autonomy, making my own schedule, and prioritizing being a mom and designer. That’s become a bit more challenging as my business has grown, but it was especially nice when my kids were younger, and I like that I can offer that same flexibility to my employees as well.
Photography by: Heidi Harris
